West Kirby

Climbing wall dedicated to Jessica Baker to open this autumn

A climbing wall built in tribute to West Kirby Grammar School pupil Jessica Baker will be officially opened in the autumn.

The 15-year-old died last September when a bus she was travelling on with fellow students crashed on the M53.

The driver, Stephen Shrimpton, also passed away.

Jessica was a keen rock climber, and had represented Wales in national competitions.

Following discussions with pupils and her family, a fundraising drive was launched to pay for the 20 foot structure, with a total of £43,000 pledged, and work on installing it began in June.

The new climbing wall. Image credit: West Kirby Grammar School screen shot

In an update on their website, the school said: “Jess’s wall is now complete and the finished wall looks amazing. Rockworks have done a great job in bringing it to life and making it a reality.

“We have still to complete the landscaping works and fencing around the climbing wall over the Summer.

“Rockworks will then be back in September to complete the training with our staff, before the official opening this Autumn.”

When the climbing wall was announced, head Simeon Clarke said: “Unequivocally kind and empathetic, Jessica was a dedicated friend who was a well-liked and respected member of our school community. She was an unassuming, polite and conscientious student who exemplified the values of our school. Jessica was also a keen sportswoman, representing her House and the school in numerous competitions, and demonstrating an unwavering love of – and commitment to – rock climbing, where she had previously represented Wales in national competitions.

“Recognising her insatiable appetite for climbing and her desire to enthuse others in this area, West Kirby Grammar School aim to convert part of their existing quad into a vibrant climbing wall area in the hope of bringing joy to many for years to come.”

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